When space is at a premium, a compact microwave can still deliver reliable power and convenient features. This guide highlights five top-rated small microwaves designed for countertops, dorms, offices, and small apartments. Each model balances wattage, presets, safety features, and user-friendly controls to help you choose the right fit for daily heating, defrosting, and quick meal prep.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Brand | Capacity | Power | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 | BLACK+DECKER | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | Push-button door, 10 power settings, child lock |
| Chefman Countertop Microwave | Chefman | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | Six presets, express cook, Eco mode, mute option |
| COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB | COMFEE’ | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | Mute function, one-touch cooking, Eco mode |
| TOSHIBA MM-EM07PA(BK) | TOSHIBA | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | ChefDefrost, auto menus, sound on/off |
| Farberware 0.7 cu ft | Farberware | 0.7 cu ft | 700W | Ten power levels, six one-touch options, defrost by weight/time |
BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 Digital Microwave
The BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7 is a compact 0.7 cubic foot microwave offering 700 watts of cooking power across 10 power settings. It features pre-programmed buttons for popular tasks such as popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, beverages, and dinners, along with a clock, kitchen timer, and a 30-second express cooking option. A large LED display and an easy-to-read control panel support quick operation. Child safety lock and interior light add safety and visibility for busy kitchens. The interior houses a removable 10” glass turntable for even heating.
Chefman Countertop Microwave Oven
The Chefman 0.7 cu ft microwave packs 700 watts into a compact form with six presets (popcorn, pizza, beverages, veggies, potatoes, leftovers) and a one-touch express cook option. It includes 10 power levels and a +30 seconds button for quick timing tweaks. The unit emphasizes practical digital controls and an eco-friendly design, helping to conserve energy when not in active use. A child safety lock adds an essential safety layer for households with kids, while a mute button reduces noise during late-night use.
COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB Countertop Microwave
The COMFEE’ EM720CPL-PMB focuses on ease of use with one-touch auto-cook functions including popcorn, potato, pizza, frozen veggies, beverage, reheat, and express cook settings. It offers a mute option to quiet alerts and an ECO mode to reduce standby power, supporting energy efficiency in small kitchens. The 0.7 cu ft interior provides a practical space for simple meals, snacks, or reheating, all controlled through a straightforward control panel.
TOSHIBA MM-EM07PA(BK) Small Microwave
The Toshiba EM07PA(BK) delivers 700 watts in a compact 0.7 cu ft design with 11.8-inch glass turntable space and a 9.5-inch wide exterior footprint. ChefDefrost helps defrost foods up to 40% faster while preserving texture, and six auto menus streamline common tasks. It also includes sound on/off and an eco mode to minimize energy use, making it a practical option for versatile daily use in smaller kitchens.
Farberware 0.7 Cu. Ft. Countertop Microwave
The Farberware 0.7 cu ft microwave offers 700 watts with ten power levels and six one-touch presets such as popcorn, potato, and pizza. Its compact design is well-suited for small spaces like apartments or offices. Defrost by weight or time adds flexibility for frozen foods, and the interior is easy to clean, helping maintain a neat cooking area in tight spaces.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
Size and capacity: For tight countertops, 0.7 cubic feet is common. Measure the available space to ensure the microwave fits with room for ventilation.
Power and speed: A 700W microwave balances compact size with adequate performance for everyday meals. Consider models with multiple power levels and quick-start buttons for convenience.
Presets and one-touch functions: Presets for popcorn, beverages, potatoes, pizza, and reheat simplify daily tasks. One-touch express cooking can save time during busy mornings.
Safety features: Child safety locks, mute options, and door-latch designs are important, especially in homes with children or shared kitchens. Interior lights help with visibility when checking food.
Eco and energy-saving modes: Eco or standby power reduction helps minimize energy use when the unit is idle, a useful feature for energy-conscious households.
Ease of use and cleaning: Digital displays, simple control panels, and easy-to-clean interiors (like spill-resistant surfaces) contribute to a better user experience in compact spaces.
Defrost options: Look for weight-based or time-based defrost to preserve texture and prevent sogginess in frozen items.
Durability and brand support: Reputable brands with reliable warranties offer longer-term peace of mind for frequent use in small kitchens or offices.